GRADUATE VISA

The Graduate Visa allows students who have successfully completed an eligible UK qualification/ degree to stay, to look for, and undertake work in the UK.

Here are some most frequently asked questions about this visa:

1. How long can I stay in the UK with Graduate visa?

If you have completed a Bachelor or Master’s degree in the UK from an approved UK Higher Education Provider, you will be allowed to stay for two years under this immigration route. If you have completed a PhD degree, you will be allowed to stay for 3 years under this route.

• Will my course count for the graduate visa?

You should contact your education provider to learn this, but you usually must have one of the following to apply:

• a UK bachelor’s degree
• a UK master’s degree
• a UK PhD or doctorate

You can also apply if you completed any of the following:

• a law conversion course approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority
• the Legal Practice Course in England and Wales, the Solicitors Course in Northern Ireland, or a Diploma in Professional Legal Practice in Scotland
• the Bar Practice Course in England and Wales, or the Bar Course in Northern Ireland
• a foundation programme in medicine or dentistry
• a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
• a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE)

• Can I apply for this visa based on my past UK studies?

No, you have to be in the UK at the date of your application for this visa.

• Can I work on a graduate visa?

You can do any kind of employment including paid and unpaid employment, voluntary work, and self-employment, except working as a professional sportsperson.

However, please note that there is no requirement to work while on a Graduate Visa.

•  Can my family members apply?

Your partner or child can only apply if they are already in the UK on your current Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa. Your dependants also need to be in the UK to apply, and they will also be allowed to work in the UK.

• Does this visa count towards indefinite leave to remain (ILR/ settlement)?

No, Graduate visa does not count towards a five-year settlement route, but it can be counted toward the 10-year long residence route if you are able to combine it with other different visas.

• Can I switch to Skilled Worker visa when my Graduate visa expires?

Yes, you can switch to Skilled Worker Visa providing you meet the conditions of the Skilled Worker visa.